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Hatching normally occurs within three weeks of laying depending on environmental temperature and humidity. Flea larvae feed on the faeces of adult fleas, and undergo two moults before pupating. Generally, the pupal stage lasts around ten days, but it is possible for the pupa to survive for up to a year within its cocoon. This cocoon is resistant to parasitacidal agents, as well as dessication and freezing. Warmth, vibrations and carbon dioxide indicate the presence of a suitable host to the pupated flea, stimulating the emergence of the adult. The adult flea is then drawn to the host by heat and carbon dioxide, as well as the individual "attractiveness" of the host.
Hatching normally occurs within three weeks of laying depending on environmental temperature and humidity. Flea larvae feed on the faeces of adult fleas, and undergo two moults before pupating. Generally, the pupal stage lasts around ten days, but it is possible for the pupa to survive for up to a year within its cocoon. This cocoon is resistant to parasitacidal agents, as well as dessication and freezing. Warmth, vibrations and carbon dioxide indicate the presence of a suitable host to the pupated flea, stimulating the emergence of the adult. The adult flea is then drawn to the host by heat and carbon dioxide, as well as the individual "attractiveness" of the host.
There are therfore two main aims of effective flea control:
There are therfore two main aims of flea control:
# To kill adult fleas from the affected animal, and
# To kill adult fleas from the affected animal, and
# To eliminate the reservoir of eggs and immature fleas in the environment, this preventing re-infestation.
# To eliminate the reservoir of eggs and immature fleas in the environment, thus preventing re-infestation.
Although flea repellents and mechanical methods of removing fleas are available, the most effective way to achieve flea control is by the use of chemicals that will kill adults, larvae or eggs. There are several products available to kill adult fleas on the host which are safe and effective. These include fipronil, imidacloprid and selemectin, which should be used on a regular basis in accordance with instructions in order to produce ongoing control of adults.
==Prognosis==
==Prognosis==